Who Founded Lagos: Yoruba Or Binis? Uproar On Social Media Over Oba Of Benin’s Claim

A statement made by the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, suggesting that the Binis founded Lagos State has ignited a lively debate on social media.

Recall that during a visit to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the monarch asserted, “It is in the history books that the Binis founded Lagos.”

He clarified that this historical claim might not apply to all of Lagos but specific areas, possibly the nucleus, founded by his ancestors.

Meanwhile, scores of personalities, influencers and other Nigerians have expressed their opinions on social media regarding the Oba’s statement.

The Balogun of Eko, Abisoye Oshodi, disagreed with the Oba, asserting that Lagos was not founded by the Binis, providing historical nuances.

Comedian Seyi Law highlighted what he sees as a distortion of history in the South West and emphasized the need to revisit historical accounts.

He narrated a joint war of Binis and Itsekiris against the King of Mahin Kingdom, leading to the Binis settling in Lagos after a fierce battle.

A social media user named B0lutife criticized what they perceived as attempts to revise the history of Lagos, specifically targeting traditional leaders.

OgbeniDipo urged netizens to approach the issue with respect, particularly considering the age of the involved traditional leaders, stressing the need for civil disagreement.

The controversy surrounding the founders of Lagos State has been a persistent source of debate between the Yorubas and the Binis.

A prominent Lagos Prince, Alhaji Tajudeen Olusi, in 2019 asserted that the Binis were the first settlers in Lagos, linking the city to the Bini Empire.

This statement followed a claim by Chief Musiliu Anibaba that the Aworis were the first settlers in Lagos, adding to the complexity of historical narratives.

The ongoing discourse reflects the intricate nature of historical narratives, emphasizing the importance of understanding differing perspectives on the founding of Lagos State.